Israel ‘cautiously optimistic’ that Sinwar’s death could be opportunity for hostage deal, official says

By Lazar Berman

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18 October 2024, 3:03 pm

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Lazar Berman is The Times of Israel's diplomatic reporter

IDF troops stand over the body of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar in Gaza on October 17, 2024. (Courtesy)

Israel is “cautiously optimistic” that the death of Yahya Sinwar will open a diplomatic window for the release of hostages held by Hamas, an Israeli official tells The Times of Israel.

The official cautions, however, that “we have to remember that Hamas is a murderous terror organization,” even without Sinwar, and that “Muhammed Sinwar is no less extreme than his brother.”

There has been no confirmation or denial from Hamas’s remaining leadership that Muhammed Sinwar is preparing to take the reins of the terror group in the wake of his brother’s death.

Israel is considering separate deals with Hamas factions that hold a small number of hostages if no central leadership emerges quickly.